Foaming in commercial dishwashers and glasswashers is a common issue that can disrupt operations and cause frustration for business owners. While many assume the machine itself is to blame, the reality is that foaming is often caused by external factors such as detergent quality, water hardness, or improper cleaning practices.
By identifying the root causes and taking proactive steps, you can effectively address and prevent foaming, ensuring your machines operate efficiently and your dishes are cleaned to the highest standards.
Causes of Foaming and How to Prevent Them
1. Residual Soap on Dishes
Cause:
The most common cause of foaming in glasswashers and dishwashers is residual soap left on glasses and crockery from the pre-rinsing process. This soap mixes with the wash water and detergent during the wash cycle and leads to foaming.
Solution:
Ensure dishes are thoroughly rinsed before loading into the dishwasher. Any soap residue left during pre-rinsing can mix with the detergent and wash water, leading to foaming. Training staff on proper pre-rinsing techniques is essential to avoid this issue.
2. Poor-Quality Detergent
Cause:
Poor quality detergents might not dissolve properly or might contain ingredients that are not compatible with commercial dishwashing. This can cause an imbalance in the water-detergent mixture, leading to foaming.
Solution:
Always use detergents and rinse aids specifically designed for commercial dishwashers and glasswashers. High-quality products are formulated to clean effectively without creating excess suds, ensuring optimal performance and protecting your machine.
3. Incorrect Wash Temperature
Cause:
Foaming can also occur when the commercial dishwasher or glasswasher has not been given enough time to get up to temperature before being used, as rinse aid can foam when mixed with cold water.
Solution:
Allow your dishwasher or glasswasher to reach the recommended operating temperature before use—typically 52°C to 55°C for glasswashers and 60°C to 65°C for dishwashers. Cold water can cause rinse aid to foam, so it’s crucial to maintain the correct temperature.
4. Improper Cleaning
Cause:
Foaming often occurs when soap residue is left in the machine from cleaning. This soap mixes with the wash water and detergent during the wash cycle and leads to foaming.
Solution:
Avoid using soap-based products when cleaning the machine. Instead, use warm water and a clean cloth or brush to wipe down the interior. This prevents soap residue from mixing with detergent during the wash cycle and causing foaming.
5. Water Softness
Cause:
Different areas may have varying levels of water softness. Soft water has fewer minerals and requires less detergent to create foam, whereas the higher mineral content in hard water areas means more chemicals are needed to produce foam. Misjudging water softness can result in overuse of detergent, which can lead to excessive foam.
Solution:
Test your water regularly to determine its hardness and adjust detergent use accordingly. In hard water areas, installing a water softener can help prevent limescale buildup and improve the machine’s performance.
6. Rinse-aid Misuse
Cause:
Rinse aid helps water to sheet of glasses and crockery, assisting with the drying process. However, if excessive amounts of rinse-aid are being used during the wash cycle, it can also cause foaming.
Solution:
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for dosing detergent and rinse aid, adjusting for your area’s water hardness. Overusing chemicals can cause foaming, while underusing them may result in poor cleaning results.
7. Mechanical Issues
Cause:
Damaged or malfunctioning parts like detergent and rinse aid pumps or dispensers may lead to the wrong quantities of chemical being dosed, which can lead to foaming.
Solution:
Schedule regular maintenance to identify and fix mechanical issues, such as faulty detergent pumps or rinse aid dispensers, which can lead to foaming. Regular servicing also ensures that the machine operates at peak efficiency.
8. Protein-based Foods
Cause:
Some protein-based foods like eggs or milk can contribute to foaming. The proteins may react with certain chemicals in the detergent or rinse aid to cause foaming.
Solution:
Pre-rinse dishes that have come into contact with protein-based foods like eggs or dairy. Protein residues can react with detergents, causing excess foam, so thorough rinsing is key.
Foaming in commercial dishwashers and glasswashers can be easily managed with the right approach. By understanding the causes and implementing solutions such as proper cleaning practices, using high-quality products, and scheduling regular maintenance, you can ensure your machines operate efficiently and deliver exceptional results.
Taking these steps will keep your equipment running smoothly, maintain cleanliness in your kitchen, and support the overall success of your business.
Want to know more? Contact the Nelson support team at 020 8993 6199 or email office@nelsonwash.co.uk